This post is an excerpt from the Q1 2026 Forisk Wood Fiber Review (WFR), which provides a quarterly review of pulpwood, chips, biomass markets and trade in the U.S. and Canada.

Introduction

Mill and Forest biomass refer to woody material that is generated as a byproduct of timber harvesting and mill operations. Typically a “waste product” at its origin, this material can be utilized for energy production or other products. Biomass is an important component of the forest products market “ecosystem”.

South Central

South Central and Southeast biomass prices continued their year-over-year decline in Q1 2026 for both mill and forest residues. In the South Central region, prices were down 2% for both products in Q1 2025, to $22.50/gt and $32.00/gt. Despite shift reductions and facility closures, South Central sawmills continue to seek buyers for their biomass. Weyerhaeuser & Aymium formed a Joint Venture called “TerraForge Biocarbon” to develop biocarbon facilities in the South, with the first in McComb, MS consuming an estimated 600k tons of fiber a year.

Southeast

The Southeast region saw declining mill and forest biomass prices as well. The Southeast is still navigating the aftermath of 2025 mill closures. However, forest biomass producers are currently benefiting from a surplus of feedstock, largely driven by the lingering supply of storm-damaged timber from Hurricane Helene. Mill and forest biomass were down 2% for the quarter to $24.50/gt and $33.50/gt, respectively. Some sawmills located in poor residual markets are investigating opportunities to “find a home” for their residuals, including mobile biochar production machines.

 

To learn more about the Wood Fiber Review, click here or email Nick DiLuzio at ndiluzio@forisk.com.